Teejay Olakojo

To celebrate Black History Month, we spoke with filmmaker and MA Drama graduate Tijesunimi ‘Teejay’ Olakojo. Teejay is not only a rising star in the film industry but also a passionate advocate for diverse representation in media. She shared with us her journey, challenges, and triumphs, as well as the significance of Black History Month to her. 

Hi Teejay! Please tell us a bit about yourself. 
I’m a filmmaker and graduate of the University of South Wales, where I completed an MA in Drama. I’ve had the privilege of producing three films so far, and I’m also the founder of Edissa Studios, a production company focused on creating impactful films that amplify underrepresented voices. My work is largely inspired by my experiences in Nigeria, and I’ve always had a passion for storytelling—whether through drama or film. 

What inspires you to create films and share stories? 
Originally, I wanted to be an actor, but as I progressed, I realized the importance of taking control of my own narrative. There’s still a gap in the industry when it comes to inclusion, especially for Black creatives, so I decided to wear multiple hats—producer, director, writer—to bring my visions to life. What drives me is turning an idea into a finished product, knowing that it could spark a conversation or make someone feel seen. 

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far? 
One of my proudest moments was completing my final project at university, a docu-drama that highlighted the experiences of asylum seekers. Despite limited resources, I transformed classrooms into filming locations and was able to produce a piece that was 23 minutes long, but incredibly powerful. It’s also rewarding to see my film, "Scarlet," which I produced in Nigeria, gain recognition. Winning two awards at the Content Creators Challenge for our work also felt like a huge step forward for me and my team. 

What does Black History Month mean to you? 
Black History Month is about being seen and heard. For me, it’s an opportunity for the university and wider society to say, "We see you, we celebrate you, and your contributions matter." As someone who’s passionate about expression and creativity, being acknowledged during this time makes me feel included and valued. It’s also a time for reflection—on how far we’ve come and the work that’s still ahead. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to follow in your footsteps? 
Be open-minded and don’t limit yourself. When I started my journey, I wasn’t just an actor—I learned how to produce, direct, and even dance. I grew up doing traditional Nigerian dance, and when I rediscovered that part of me during my studies, it opened doors I never expected. Embrace every experience and find ways to turn any challenges into strengths. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they’re part of the process. 

Where do you see yourself in five years? 
In five years, I see myself as an established actress in the British film industry, but also as a filmmaker who’s producing work that pushes boundaries and creates space for more ethnic diversity in the industry. I want to continue telling stories that matter, and hopefully, create opportunities for others in underrepresented communities to break into film. 

How did your time at the University of South Wales shape your career? 
The University of South Wales was like a dream come true for me. The support I received—from scholarships like the Sanctuary Scholarship to funding for my final project—was invaluable. I was always encouraged to bring my cultural identity into my work, and that has really shaped who I am as a creative today. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about Teejay and her work, or want to get in contact with her yourself, you can find her on Instagram @teejayolakojo.